Why the Right Fleet Matters for Inclusive Cycling

By Jamie Lawson, Inclusive Cycling Advisor at Bikeworks

When people think about cycling, they often picture two wheels, balance, and speed. But cycling can take many different forms, and with the right equipment, it becomes an activity that everyone can enjoy. That’s why having a fleet inclusive of cycles is essential, not only for All Ability Clubs, but also for schools, local authorities, care homes, and community groups that want to make cycling accessible to everyone.

As someone who both advises on inclusion and rides at Bikeworks’ All Ability Clubs, I see every week how the right cycle can remove any unnecessary barriers. A cycle that feels safe and comfortable not only makes participation possible, but also enables riders to experience the joy and freedom of cycling.

 

With the right cycles, no one is left out.

Recently, one of our clubs added two new cycles to the fleet: the Fun2Go and the EasyRider. These bikes have already transformed the way people ride together. The Fun2Go is a side-by-side tandem, so two riders can pedal and chat at the same time — perfect for friends, carers, or anyone who feels more confident with riding with company. The EasyRider, with its low step-through frame and supportive seat, makes cycling accessible for people who may struggle with balance or joint pain.

“Investing in the Fun2Go and EasyRider cycles from Bikeworks has been one of the best decisions for our community. As specialists in inclusive cycling, Bikeworks helped us choose the right bikes to meet local needs. These cycles have opened up riding to people of all ages and abilities, and we’re already seeing the benefits — more people taking part, more confidence, and more families enjoying cycling together.

 

I’ve seen first-hand the joy these cycles bring.

Riders who hadn’t been on a bike in years are rediscovering the freedom of movement. Families are cycling together in ways they never thought possible. One person told me that the Fun2Go made them feel like they were “part of the action again,” after years of watching from the sidelines.

For me personally, my favourite cycle is the Fun2Go. There’s something special about being able to share the ride side by side. It turns cycling into a social activity — laughter, conversation, and exercise all rolled into one.

Getting the fleet right isn’t just about variety. It’s about equity.

It ensures that no matter your age, ability, or confidence level, there’s a cycle that can work for you. That’s what makes inclusive cycling so powerful. It’s not just about bikes — it’s about freedom, wellbeing, and connection.

If you’re curious, visit us at our Inclusive Cycle Sales Showroom opposite the Velo in the Olympic Park, or come along to one of our All Ability Clubs. We can help you find the right fleet for your school, local authority, care home, or community group.

When Bikeworks Met Professor Muhammad Yunus – the Nobel Peace Prize Laureate & Father of Social Enterprise

A year ago, Bikeworks had the incredible honour of welcoming Professor Muhammad Yunus – the Nobel Peace Prize laureate and widely regarded father of social enterprise – to our organisation. For our Co-Founders, Jim and Zoe, this moment was deeply meaningful, as Yunus’ pioneering work has been a profound inspiration in shaping their journey as social entrepreneurs.

Yunus has redefined the role of business in society.

 

Through Grameen Bank, he revolutionised micro-finance, enabling people who were previously excluded from financial systems to build businesses, create livelihoods, and escape poverty. But his impact extends far beyond finance. His innovative approach has transformed social enterprises across sectors like health, education, and even sport, demonstrating that business can be a powerful force for social change.

In 2021, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) honoured Yunus with the Olympic Laurel during the Tokyo 2020 Opening Ceremony, recognising his extraordinary achievements in education, culture, development, and peace through sport. Yunus’ collaboration with the IOC aims to integrate social business principles into the Olympic Games, ensuring that these global events leave a lasting, positive legacy for local communities.

This resonates deeply with us at Bikeworks – we share Yunus’s belief in using business to address inequalityNearly 19 years ago, Bikeworks’ original vision, Olympic Bikes, was born from the idea that the London 2012 Olympics should create a lasting legacy – not just for elite sport, but for accessibility, healthy communities, and inclusive travel. Inspired by Yunnus, our Co-Founders saw firsthand how social enterprises could drive change, create jobs, and promote wellbeing – using the growth of the social enterprise movement and the cycle as a tool for good. 

Yunus’ visit to Bikeworks was a moment of profound reflection and motivation.

 

His vision and leadership have shaped the social enterprise movement we are proud to be a part of. The extraordinary events of the past year in his life – culminating in his unprecedented rise to lead Bangladesh, overcoming intense political opposition and personal persecution – serve as a powerful reminder of how social business can challenge the status quo and reshape entire systems.

The world is changing, and the role of social enterprises has never been more crucial as a movement for a more inclusive, fairer world.

 

Huge thanks go to Peter Holbrook, Emily Cherry, Shazia Hussain, and everyone at Pioneers Post, QEOP LLDC, School of Social Entrepreneurs and Social Enterprise UK.